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Saddlers believe in survival

Resurgent Walsall have rediscovered their confidence, according to boss Dean Smith and Saturday's matchwinner Julian Gray.

Last Updated: 07/02/11 12:55pm

Resurgent Walsall have rediscovered their confidence, according to boss Dean Smith and Saturday's matchwinner Julian Gray.

The Saddlers have looked a different proposition under Smith since he took charge at the start of January, initially stopping the rot and turning defeats into hard-fought draws.

But the nature of the emphatic 6-1 victory over fellow strugglers Bristol Rovers nine days ago has sparked a new lease of life into everyone connected with the club.

A subsequent 1-1 draw away to Notts County in midweek was followed up by Saturday's impressive 3-1 success at Carlisle. moving the rejuvenated club to within four points of safety.

Gray bagged a brace at Brunton Park and he said: "I got on the scoresheet but as long as we won that's the important thing. You can see the confidence is there and we are creating as well as scoring. If we keep winning we can't worry about anyone else, we just have to go out and get points."

Manager Smith added: "We've got belief back not just in the players but supporters as well. I know the quality of the players in the club and there are still a lot of points to play for. Winning breeds confidence and confidence breeds better players."